The Juiciest Baked Salmon Recipe Everyone Will Love

My favorite weeknight salmon recipe combines incredible flavors that will make your dinner extraordinary.

Succulent fish transforms into a mouthwatering meal with minimal preparation.

Rich omega-3 proteins create a nutritious foundation for this simple dish.

Mediterranean herbs and a light citrus glaze bring unexpected brightness to the plate.

Fresh ingredients elevate this classic seafood option beyond standard expectations.

Minimal kitchen skills can produce restaurant-quality results with these straightforward steps.

You’ll love how quickly this delectable salmon comes together for a memorable meal.

Salmon Leftovers: Storage and Reheating Advice

• Seal cooled salmon in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the fish is completely covered to maintain moisture and prevent odors.
• Wrap individual salmon portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking temperature to prevent overcooking. Stop when fish is warm throughout.
• Preheat oven to 275F. Place salmon in a baking dish, add a splash of water or lemon juice. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated evenly.

What to Serve Alongside Flavorful Baked Salmon

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complement the salmon's rich, delicate flavor, cutting through the fish's natural oils with their bright, refreshing acidity.
• Match with Herbal Side Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with fresh dill, arugula, and a lemon vinaigrette that echoes the salmon's seasoning and provides a crisp, zesty counterpoint.
• Serve with Roasted Asparagus: Grilled or roasted asparagus with a touch of garlic and lemon mirrors the salmon's cooking method and enhances the overall Mediterranean-inspired meal profile.
• Complement with Citrus Quinoa: Prepare quinoa with lemon zest and fresh herbs to provide a protein-rich, light grain side that balances the salmon's richness and adds textural contrast.

Easy Baked Salmon Variations to Explore

• Herb-Crusted Salmon: Replace dill with a mix of fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary for an aromatic herb crust.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free and use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce if adding any marinade.
• Low-Sodium Variation: Reduce salt and use fresh herbs and citrus zest to enhance flavor without extra sodium.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Add a butter and almond meal coating instead of traditional seasonings to increase healthy fat content while maintaining low carbohydrate profile.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing. Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better seasoning and texture.

• How do I know if the salmon is fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer – it should reach 145°F. The salmon should look opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. The flesh should be light pink and firm.

• What if I don't have fresh dill?

Dried dill works perfectly as a substitute. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried dill compared to fresh. Alternatively, you can use fresh parsley or dried herbs like thyme for a similar aromatic flavor.

• Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This salmon recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb. It’s also keto-friendly and can be easily adapted for those following paleo or pescatarian diets. The simple ingredients make it a versatile dish for many eating plans.

Why Baked Salmon Always Impresses at Dinner

• Easily adapt the recipe by swapping herbs or adding your favorite spices, allowing personal creativity to shine through while keeping the core technique straightforward.
• Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, this salmon dish delivers exceptional nutrition without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
• Prepare a restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy families seeking delicious, wholesome dinners that don't demand hours of preparation.

Baked Salmon Ingredient List for Culinary Bliss

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, high-quality salmon that provides a rich and delicate seafood base for this recipe.

• Garlic Powder, Dill: Aromatic seasonings that add depth and herbal complexity to the salmon's flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the natural taste of the fish.

• Olive Oil: Helps to keep the salmon moist and promotes even cooking with a subtle richness.
• Lemon Juice: Adds bright, citrusy notes that complement the salmon's richness and provide a fresh tang.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve as a zesty garnish that allows diners to adjust the citrus flavor to their preference.

Simple Steps to Baked Salmon Success

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Space

Grab a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.

This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Set your oven to warm up at 375F (190C) so it’s ready for the salmon’s grand entrance.

Step 2: Position Salmon Beautifully

Carefully place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet with the skin facing down.

This helps keep the fish moist and creates a delightful base for seasoning.

Step 3: Dress Up the Salmon

• Fresh olive oil
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Dried dill
• Kosher salt
• Cracked black pepper

Drizzle and sprinkle these ingredients generously over each fillet to create a mouthwatering coating.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the salmon roast for 15-20 minutes.

The fish is ready when it easily flakes with a gentle fork touch and looks opaque in the center.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Serve with fresh lemon wedges for an extra pop of brightness.

Salmon Pro Tips for Flaky, Flavorful Results

• Pat salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
• Choose wild-caught salmon with bright color and firm texture for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Thinner fillets need less time, so check salmon at 12 minutes to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
• Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth and complexity to the salmon's taste.
• Verify all seasonings are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring a safe and delicious meal.

Baked Salmon Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Baked Salmon brings Mediterranean coastal flavors directly to your kitchen with minimal preparation. Delicate fish fillets emerge perfectly seasoned, promising a restaurant-quality meal that delights palates and nourishes you with omega-rich goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 (6 ounces/170 grams) fresh salmon fillets

Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Finishing Ingredients:

• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by setting the temperature to 375F (190C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
2. Arrange salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet with the skin facing downward, ensuring even placement and good heat distribution.
3. Enhance the salmon’s flavor profile by gently drizzling olive oil across the surface of each fillet, creating a light, moisture-rich coating.
4. Season the salmon with a balanced blend of garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper, distributing the herbs and spices evenly to maximize taste complexity.
5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets, which will brighten the fish’s natural flavors and add a subtle citrus undertone.
6. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, monitoring the salmon’s doneness by checking that it flakes effortlessly when tested with a fork.
7. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes, which helps the fish retain its moisture and tender texture.
8. Garnish with additional lemon wedges to provide a zesty accent and allow diners to adjust the citrus intensity to their preference.

Notes

• Use fresh salmon with bright color and firm texture for the best taste and quality.
• Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible to enhance nutritional value and environmental sustainability.
• Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden exterior and better herb adherence.
• Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness; thinner fillets need less time to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 75 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg